What are languages do most programmers learn? Which languages are most popular? Is programming hard, in general?

Question

I recently took a programming class for a semester, and I really would like to pursue this career... It's just that I don't know where to start learning...

Answer 1

A lot of programmers start learning with Python (the easiest, in my opinion), though I've seen more than a few that started with C++ or Java. Generally, the three languages I just mentioned are some of the most popular, though it's really a matter of personal preference. HTML, CSS & JavaScript are also used for web development, and they're easy to start with, too.

As for whether or not it's hard... yep, it's hard. But people don't pick up hobbies/professions because they're easy. Painting a picture, writing a symphony, designing a house, producing a movie, and scientific study are not easy things to do, but people do them because they're interesting and entertaining. Easy is overrated.

Answer 2

I completely agree with Sean however I would like to add a few things to keep in mind.

Learning Php is pretty quick to learn and is a great way to learn the basics of coding (e. g. loops, difference between bool, int etc)
However in saying that, I found that starting with C was the best way to start programming as it is a simple language to start with on Linux when you are playing around with the basics, this then gives you foundation for developing your skills in C and progress into the much more powerful but harder to learn aspects of C and maybe even the languages based on C.

So to summarize, if you just want to make basic programs and scripts I'd recommend Python or Php but if you don't want to be limited to the language use C as it can be used for almost anything. Also keep in mind that there are libraries for everything in most languages so they also make things simpler